What happens after the 90-day waiting period for an unclaimed property claim in New Hampshire?

Short answer: After the state’s initial 90-day review or notice period, the New Hampshire Unclaimed Property program either approves the claim and pays or returns the property to the claimant, requests additional documentation, or denies the claim and gives instructions for appeal. Processing and follow-up actions vary depending on whether the unclaimed property is cash, securities, or tangible property, whether a third‑party holder has objected, and whether additional proof is needed.

Detailed answer — step by step

1. Claim submission and intake

You submit a claim to the New Hampshire Treasury’s Unclaimed Property Division (online or by mail). Typical required documents include proof of identity, proof of prior relationship to the account (for example, account statements, invoices, or a death certificate if claiming as an heir or executor), and any forms the Treasury requests.

2. Initial review and verification

The Unclaimed Property office reviews your claim and the supporting documents. If information is missing or inconsistent, the office typically contacts you and gives a limited time to supply the missing documentation.

3. 90-day notice / waiting period

One common use of a 90-day period is the time the state allows a holder (the business or bank that reported the property) to be notified and to respond if it contests the claim or needs to deliver the asset. In other cases, the office may give the claimant up to 90 days to cure a deficiency in the claim packet. The exact trigger for the 90 days depends on the particular stage of processing and any notices the Treasury has issued.

4. What typically happens after 90 days

• If the claimant supplied requested documents and the claim is verified: The Treasury authorizes payment or releases the property. For cash, that means a check or electronic payment. For securities, it may mean transferring ownership or liquidating and paying cash. For tangible property, arrangements will be made to deliver or release the property.
• If the claimant failed to respond to a deficiency notice: The claim may be denied or marked incomplete. The claimant should receive notification explaining the denial and instructions for resubmission or appeal.
• If the holder objected or filed documentation disputing the claim: The state will review both sides. The Treasury may request additional documentation from you, the reporting holder, or both. The state resolves disputes administratively; resolution can extend processing time beyond the 90 days.
• If the claim is valid but the Treasury offsets against state debts: The Treasury may reduce the payout for outstanding debts owed to the state (taxes, child support, etc.) where permitted by law.

5. If your claim is denied

The Treasury typically issues a written denial explaining the basis. The denial notice will usually explain any administrative appeal or re-submission procedure and any deadlines. You should follow the instructions and provide additional documentation promptly if you want to continue pursuing the property.

Timing — what to expect

Even after the 90-day mark, actual payment or release can take additional weeks to months depending on these factors: complexity of the claim, whether the holder contests, need to clear securities, internal Treasury workload, or requirements to clear liens or offsets. Plan for several weeks beyond 90 days in straightforward cases and several months in disputed or complex cases.

How to speed up resolution

• Submit clear, legible proof of identity (photo ID) and proof of ownership or entitlement (statements, contracts, or probate documents).
• Respond quickly to Treasury requests for more information.
• If you represent an estate, provide certified copies of the death certificate and letters testamentary or administration.
• Keep copies of everything you submit and note dates you mailed or uploaded material.

Where to get official New Hampshire guidance

For program rules, forms, and how to file or appeal a decision, see the New Hampshire Treasury Unclaimed Property page: https://www.nh.gov/treasury/unclaimed-property/. That site provides claim forms, contact information, and program FAQs.

Helpful Hints

• Use the Treasury’s online claim portal if available — it often speeds processing.
• Gather multiple forms of proof: bank statements, old mail, account numbers, or correspondence with the holder.
• If you represent heirs, include documents showing your authority (probate letters, small estate affidavits, etc.).
• Ask the Treasury for written reasons if your claim is delayed or denied — written reasons help if you appeal.
• Keep expectations realistic: disputed or non-cash property (like stock certificates) usually takes longer than simple cash claims.

If you disagree with the Treasury’s decision

The denial or final decision letter usually explains appeal rights. Follow the procedures and deadlines in that notice. If you still need help, consider consulting an attorney experienced in unclaimed property or administrative law to review your documentation and options.